Every BMW Gearbox Type Explained: What's Under Your Car?

Not all BMW gearboxes are the same — and confusing them when buying a used car can be a very costly mistake.

In this episode of Under the Hood by MT Auto Parts, we walk through every gearbox type found on modern F, G, and U generation BMWs. From the six-speed manual to the ZF 8-speed automatic, the dual-clutch DCT, the M Steptronic, and all the way through to hybrid and electric drivetrains — we explain what each one is, how it actually feels to drive, what goes wrong, and what you need to check before handing over your money.

If you're looking for a BMW gearbox for **** for your 3 Series or a performance M car, or a plug-in hybrid X model, this episode gives you the knowledge to make the right call.

In this episode:
1) Why Steptronic is a feature, not a separate gearbox
2) The real difference between the ZF 8-speed and the DCT
3) Why gearbox fluid history matters more than most owners realise
4) What the M Steptronic means for modern M car buyers
5) How hybrid and electric BMW drivetrains change the picture entirely


Under the Hood is brought to you by MT Auto Parts — specialists in used genuine BMW parts for F, G, and U generation models. Most BMW parts are delivered within 48 hours across the UK mainland. Visit mtautoparts.com and shop BMW accessories and spares today.

Halogen, LED, or laser — do you actually know what's on your BMW? We break down every headlight type, what goes wrong, and what replacement really costs in the UK.

Full description: Not all BMW headlights are the same quality — and the difference between getting it right and getting it wrong can cost you over a thousand pounds.

In this episode of Under the Hood by MT Auto Parts, we break down the three main headlight technologies found on modern F, G, and U generation BMWs: halogen, standard LED, adaptive LED, and laser. We explain what each one actually does in the real world, how to identify which type your BMW has, what the common problems are, and what genuine replacement costs look like in the UK in 2026.

If you're buying a used BMW and trying to assess the risk, dealing with a failed headlight right now, or simply trying to understand what you already own — this episode gives you the honest, practical answers.

Over 21,000 BMW Parts For **** Available | MT Auto Parts

Looking for quality used BMW parts? You're in the right place.

MT Auto Parts stocks over 21,000 genuine and OEM used BMW parts for all 2012+ models — from the 1 Series all the way to the X7, Z4, and electric models including the iX and i7.

Every part carefully dismantled, inspected, and ready to dispatch within 24–48 hours across the UK mainland.

What's in stock:
🔦 Lights — Xenon, LED & laser BMW headlights
⚙️ Used BMW Engines — Complete engines & cylinder heads
🔧 BMW Gearboxes — Automatic & ZF gearbox units
🛞 BMW Alloy Wheels — BMW alloys & M Sport rims
🚗 BMW Body Parts — Bumpers, doors & mirrors
🪑 BMW Interior parts — Seats, steering wheels & dashboards
🎵 Entertainment — iDrive & Harman Kardon speakers
🔩 BMW Suspension parts — Shock absorbers & drivetrain
🛑 Brakes — Calipers & discs
💨 Exhausts — Systems & DPF units
⚡ Electrical — Sensors, BMW ECUs & control units
🛡️ Airbags — Driver, passenger & seatbelts

Browse our BMW parts stock at www.mtautoparts.com

🚨 NEW ARRIVAL – BMW F22 M235i NOW BREAKING FOR BMW PARTS 🚨

A fresh BMW F22 M235i has just landed in our workshop and is now being carefully dismantled for genuine used parts.

If you own an F22, this is the one to watch. From drivetrain and suspension to interior trim, body panels and performance components — parts will move fast on this one.

We dismantle 2012+ BMW models and supply genuine BMW parts across the UK mainland, with fast 24 to 48 hours delivery and 30-day warranty (T&C apply).

📩 Need something specific? Send us your VIN and the part you’re looking for — we’ll confirm fitment before you buy.

First come, first served.

Looking for BMW parts? We’ve got over 20,000 parts in stock ready to be shipped.

At MT Auto Parts, we dismantle and supply more affordable parts for all BMWs from 2012 onwards, including:

✔️ 1 Series (F20/F21, F40, F70) – Hatchbacks
✔️ 2 Series (F22/F23/F87, F44, G42…) – Coupes, Convertibles, Gran Coupes
✔️ 3 & 4 Series – Saloons, Estates, GTs, Coupes, Gran Coupes
✔️ 5, 6, 7 & 8 Series – Luxury saloons, estates, coupes, convertibles
✔️ X1–X7 SUVs – All generations since 2012
✔️ Z4 (G29) – Roadster
✔️ i Models – i3, i8, iX3, iX, i7

From engines and gearboxes to interiors, bumpers, steering wheels and many other BMW spare parts — most of them are OEM quality (or clearly described), tested, shipped UK-wide in just 24–48 hours.

We are currently dismantling a low-mileage BMW X3 (G08 Electric Hybrid), with genuine BMW spare parts now available.

From the engine, gearbox and hybrid components to interiors, trims, wheels, bumpers and other BMW spares — all in almost excellent condition.

Affordable, sustainable and delivered UK-wide within 24–48h with 30 day warranty (T&C apply). Perfect for keeping your BMW on the road with quality auto parts, but with more affordable prices.

Link: www.mtautoparts.com

🔥 BMW B58 – Still the King in 2025

The B58 turbo straight-six first came out in 2015 in the BMW 340i – and it’s been a favourite ever since. It’s won Ward’s 10 Best Engines four times and is used in loads of BMWs, from the M140i to the M440i models.

Why people love it:
🔧 More boost and power than the old N55
🔧 Strong closed-deck block for reliability
🔧 Water-to-air intercooler for quicker response
🔧 Forged crank & rods – built to last

BMW has improved it over the years with better fuel systems, cooling, lighter parts and even extra fuel injection for cleaner running. Power ranges from around 286hp in some models to 441hp in special editions.

For the ultimate version, there’s the S58 – BMW M’s twin-turbo version with up to 560PS in the 3.0 CSL.

Press a follow button for more BMW related content.

📸 Got a BMW with B58 engine? Share your photos below!

Every BMW has a story — and sometimes, it needs the right part to keep that story going.

At MT Auto Parts, we’re more than just BMW breakers.

We give used BMWs a second life by supplying genuine BMW auto parts for 2012+ BMW models across the UK.

Every piece we sell has been carefully removed, tested, and prepared so it’s mostly easy to fit in.

Our best-selling BMW parts are:

- BMW headlights and other lights and elements
- Engine blocks, full complete BMW engines and other engine parts
- Smooth-shifting automatic gearboxes
- Full wiring looms connecting every system in harmony
- Front BMW bumpers and other body parts
- ECUs, our most commonly purchased spare part

These BMW spares are in high demand because they’re reliable, tested, and ready to bring your BMW **** to its best.

If you’re repairing, restoring, or upgrading, we’ve got the parts — and the passion — to help you do it right.

Contact us and we can help you.